Mountain Spinach – Orach

To grow spinach, sow seeds directly into fertile soil, planting them about 8cm deep and 15cm apart, then keep the soil consistently moist. Spinach is a cool-season crop that bolts in heat, so plant in the spring before the last frost or in the fall. Water regularly, keep the area weed-free, and thin seedlings as needed to provide proper spacing. 1. Choose the right time to plant Cool Season: Spinach is a cool-season crop, so plant it 2-3 weeks before the last frost in the spring or in late summer for a Autumn harvest. Avoid Heat: Plant when temperatures are cool, as spinach can "bolt" and produce flowers in very hot weather, leading to a bitter taste. 2. Prepare the soil Location: Select a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-draining soil. Amend Soil: Mix in compost, chook manure and or blood n bone to enrich the soil and improve its nutrient content and moisture retention. 3. Plant the seeds Depth: Sow seeds about 8cm deep. Spacing: Plant seeds 15cm apart, with rows about 30cm inches apart, or use a "scatter" method for a dense "forest" effect. Cover and Water: Cover the seeds with soil and pat it down lightly, then water the area thoroughly. Protect: Use netting or hoops to protect the newly planted seeds from pests and to prevent them from being washed away by watering. 4. Care for the seedlings Keep Soil Moist: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Thin Seedlings: Thin the seedlings by cutting them at the base when they are young to give the remaining plants space to grow. Weed Control: Remove any weed seeds that sprout to prevent competition for resources. 5. Harvest Pick Leaves: Once the leaves reach full size, you can harvest them by snipping them at the base of the plant. Encourage Regrowth: Cutting outer leaves encourages the plant to produce more, providing a continuous supply of fresh spinach. Fertilise with Seasol or other high nitrogen liquid fertiliser